I am very intrigued by learning sign language.
I learned the alphabet very quickly (10 mins. using video).
So, I want to start learning words and phrases.
My questions about it are:
1) From an experienced signer- how actually hard is it to learn?
2) Is it possible to fully teach yourself from the aid of a video or book (book preferred)? When I say “fully” I don’t mean every word there is to know- just the basics and more.
3) Any tips on memorization? I have always been quite good at memorizing things (does that affect the learning process?).
Any tips in general are great!
I am a sophomore in high school and no classes are offered and getting a teacher is not an option.
I would like to say I want to learn it for fun but, I would love to learn it to help children with hearing disabilities in the future.
Thank you for your help.
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when you go to college, theyll most likely have a class. its an easy A
That’s great that you want to learn the language. It’s very helpful to the deaf to be able to “talk” and be understood when in a pinch….ie, at the supermarket, in an accident etc.
Many churches and their affiliated groups use sign language in their services. Perhaps if you called around, you could find someone that signs regularly at church and would be willing to teach you. My congregation used to teach anyone who wanted to learn.
I think the most difficult part for me was translating what I heard correctly into signing. My brain wasn’t that quick. You’re young and probably won’t have that much difficulty.
I remember most of the letters that I had to learn 50+ years ago in order to communicate with an associate at work. Some of the word sign still reside in my memory bank, but it has been too many years ago to use them usefully anymore.
Definitely give it a try.
(Also comes in handy when you want to silently talk with a classmate across the room) 😉